China to launch Chang'e-2 satellite

China will launch its second lunar satellite, Chang'e-2, at the end of 2010. This was announced on Monday by the Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence.

"Chang'e" is named after a legendary Chinese moon goddess. The Chang'e-2 will test key soft landing technologies for the Chang'e-3 and provide high-resolution photo images of the landing area.

China has made progress on six key technologies of Chang'e-2. These include advancements to its lunar capture, orbit control and high-resolution stereo camera. Chang'e-2 and Chang'e-3 are part of China's lunar exploration program. China launched Chang'e-1 in October, 2007.